The Asia Journalism Fellowship 2026 is now officially open for applications. Hosted in Singapore, this prestigious fellowship is designed for mid-career journalists across Asia who want to strengthen their professional skills, build regional networks, and gain deeper insight into journalism, media trends, and public policy.
Organized by Temasek Foundation and hosted by the Institute of Policy Studies, the fellowship will run for eight weeks from 6 July to 28 August 2026. The first four weeks will be conducted online, while the remaining four weeks will take place physically in Singapore.
This is an excellent opportunity for journalists who want to learn from experienced media professionals, participate in workshops and seminars, and connect with fellows from different Asian countries.
Why You Should Apply for the Asia Journalism Fellowship 2026
The Asia Journalism Fellowship (AJF) has become one of the most respected journalism fellowship programs in Asia since its launch in 2009. Every year, selected fellows get the chance to engage in meaningful discussions about media, journalism ethics, digital transformation, misinformation, and regional challenges.
The fellowship gives journalists a rare opportunity to step away from the daily pressure of newsroom work and focus on learning, collaboration, and professional growth. Fellows also participate in discussions with policymakers, academics, and media experts in Singapore.
Fellowship Duration
The AJF 2026 program will run from:
- 6 July 2026 to 28 August 2026
Program structure:
- First 4 weeks: Online sessions
- Last 4 weeks: In-person program in Singapore
The hybrid format allows participants to engage virtually before traveling to Singapore for immersive learning experiences and networking activities.
Financial Benefits
The Asia Journalism Fellowship 2026 offers generous support for selected fellows. Benefits include:
- Economy-class airfare support
- Visa reimbursement (up to S$40)
- Airport transfer support
- Accommodation in serviced apartments
- Monthly stipend of S$900 during the Singapore phase
- Access to university resources and internet facilities
- Professional workshops and seminars
- Networking opportunities with journalists from across Asia
Accommodation is fully covered, and fellows will stay in shared serviced apartments with private bedrooms.
Areas Covered During the Fellowship
Participants will engage in various activities and workshops related to:
- Investigative journalism
- Digital media
- Data journalism
- Reporting in the misinformation era
- Multimedia storytelling
- Social media in journalism
- Journalism ethics
- Regional political and social issues
The fellowship also includes briefings, seminars, learning journeys, and peer discussions.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the Asia Journalism Fellowship 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Must have at least five years of professional journalism experience
- Must currently work full-time as a journalist in Asia
- Freelancers may apply if journalism is their primary source of income
- Must be comfortable with spoken and written English
- Employed applicants must obtain employer approval for participation
- Student journalism experience does not count toward the minimum requirement
The fellowship welcomes journalists from both English and non-English media organizations.
Required Documents
Applicants need to submit the following documents:
- Completed application form
- Three recommendation letters
- Employer support letter (for employed applicants)
- Personal statement (500 words)
- 3–5 work samples
- Educational certificates
- Short video explaining why they want to join AJF
- Personal Data Protection Act form
Incomplete applications may not be reviewed.
Selection Process
Applications will be reviewed by a selection panel consisting of senior journalists and academics. Successful candidates will be notified by mid-June 2026. The selection process is highly competitive, so applicants are encouraged to submit strong application materials and demonstrate their professional achievements clearly.
Application Deadline
The last date to apply for the Asia Journalism Fellowship 2026 is:
20 May 2026
Applicants should ensure that all required materials, including recommendation letters, are submitted before the deadline.
How to Apply
Interested applicants can check complete details and application instructions on the official fellowship website below:
Asia Journalism Fellowship Official Website
The Asia Journalism Fellowship 2026 is an outstanding opportunity for journalists who want to enhance their reporting skills, expand regional connections, and experience one of Asia’s leading media and policy environments in Singapore. If you are passionate about journalism and regional collaboration, this fellowship could become a major milestone in your professional journey.
Nabeel Akhter is an international education advocate and scholarship mentor dedicated to helping students access global academic opportunities. He studied in the United States at the University of Massachusetts Amherst through the Study of the U.S. Institutes (SUSI) for Student Leaders program funded by the U.S. Department of State.
Inspired by this journey, Nabeel now actively mentors and guides students in finding and applying for scholarships, exchange programs, and global learning opportunities, helping them navigate pathways to study and grow internationally.